Lot 162 - 1970 Ford Lotus Cortina Mk. II
| Lot Number | 162 |
| Registration | SKG 850H |
| Chassis Number | BA91JR03564 |
| Engine Number | E19125 |
| Odometer reading | 110,252 miles |
| Result | Sold - £21,840 |
The second incarnation of the Cortina was designed by Roy Haynes and was launched on 18th October, 1966. Following on from the enormous success of the Lotus Cortina Mk. I, Ford introduced the Cortina-Lotus Mk. II in 1967 with the famous Lotus twin-cam engine now giving 109bhp. Ford renamed the Lotus version the Cortina-Lotus due to its manufacture at Ford's Dagenham plant in Essex. This came about through their move from Cheshunt to Hethel in 1966. As an aside, the well-known stripe that adorns the Ford Cortina-Lotus models was never applied by the factory and was made a dealer option only.
This example was built in June 1969 and registered on 16th March, 1970. As such, this is one of the last of its type. At the time Ford were beginning to refer to these cars as the Cortina Twin Cam, however the build code for this car confirms it was built a righthand drive manual car, in a Lotus specification factory build shell and painted in Ermine White with black trim which it is still found in today. This is a much more refined car than the Mk. I and thus more useable and friendly yet still fast and reliable. A car well-known to the Lotus Cortina Owner's Club network, this example has been driven by Andy Morrell and he knows the car reasonably well. We are informed that it has been maintained mechanically regardless of cost and remains largely original with little sign of any significant restoration and good panel fit. Modifications have been kept sensible with a Kenlowe fan, electronic ignition and modern brake servo fitted.
The impressive history file details that the car had a full engine rebuild by Rapier Services in 2002 and, we are informed, it is still fitted with most of the period parts such as the radio and jack. Contained within the history is a detailed report as to the history of the car dating back to 1970, the file also includes plenty full invoices, previous MoT test certificates and photographs of the engine rebuild coupled with ownership details. Although not required, our vendor insists he will obtain a new MoT test certificate for the sale and he stresses, although not a concours show winner, this is a fabulous Mk. II Cortina, priced sensibly and represents an opportunity to acquire an iconic piece of motoring history.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.